On December 28, 2004, Jerry Orbach, beloved actor of stage and screen, passed away at the age of 69. Orbach was perhaps best known for his portrayal of NYPD Detective Lennie Briscoe, a character he played on Law & Order for 12 years, earning him an Emmy nomination. Originally a musical theater actor, Orbach appeared in acclaimed Broadway productions such as Promises, Promises; Chicago; and 42nd Street, and won Tony Awards for his work in both Promises, Promises and Chicago. In addition to television and theater work, Orbach was a prolific film actor, appearing in over 40 films. He became well known in the early 80s for his roles in Dirty Dancing and Prince of the City. Throughout his career, he also worked as a voice actor on animated projects such as Disney's Beauty and the Beast and The Prince of Egypt. Orbach, who was born in the Bronx, served in Korea until 1953 and was married to Dorothy Orbach from 1954 until his death in 2004. He is survived by their three sons, Tony, Chris, and John. He will be remembered for his decades of work that garnered worldwide acclaim, and for his spirit and talent that made him one of the most beloved actors of his time.